In-Clinic Ketamine vs. At-Home Ketamine: What You Need to Know

by | Sep 30, 2024 | Ketamine therapy | 0 comments

In-Clinic Ketamine vs. At-Home Ketamine

Ketamine therapy has gained popularity for providing mental health relief when traditional treatments have failed. However, with many available options, including in-clinic and at-home treatment, knowing which is best for your needs can be challenging.

At Emerge Ketamine in Woburn, MA, we focus on offering in-clinic ketamine therapy to ensure safe, supervised care. In this guide, we’ll compare in-clinic ketamine with at-home ketamine treatments and explore what you need to know before choosing the right option.

 

What Is In-Clinic Ketamine Therapy?

At Emerge Ketamine, we provide in-clinic ketamine therapy, where patients receive treatment in a controlled, professional environment. The most common form of ketamine therapy offered in clinics is IV ketamine infusions, where ketamine is directly injected into a patient’s veins for rapid absorption into the bloodstream.

Ketamine infusions tend to last around 40 minutes and begin with a starting dose of around 0.5–2 mg/kg. However, depending on how a patient responds, the dose may be adjusted throughout.

Medical professionals will closely monitor patients during the treatment and may offer verbal support as they undergo the experience. Patients will remain in the clinics for a short while following their infusion as the psychological effects of ketamine wear off to ensure they can leave safely.

Our clinic in Woburn focuses on enhancing the patient experience and creating a pleasant and supportive environment for ketamine infusions. Patients are provided with bespoke earphones that play carefully curated playlists and an eye mask to immerse comfortably into the ketamine experience.

 

What Is At-Home Ketamine Therapy?

At-home ketamine therapy, involves self-administering ketamine treatments at home. Typically, these treatments come in oral or nasal spray forms. Patients are often provided with equipment to monitor their vital signs during sessions, but nobody is physically there to check their safety. This form of ketamine therapy is best suited for patients with limited mobility who are unable to make regular visits to a clinic.

While the home environment is more accessible, the lack of real-time medical support can present risks. Patients may be remotely connected to medical supervision during administration, for instance, via Zoom.

Safety of Ketamine At-Home vs. In the Clinic

Ketamine therapy, though beneficial, isn’t without side effects. The FDA has raised concerns about at-home ketamine use, given the lack of monitoring and support for these side effects.

Physical risks can include:

  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Increase in heart rate and blood pressure
  • Sedation – feeling physically sleepy
  • Allergic reactions (rare)
  • Impaired motor control

Psychological risks can include:

  • Dissociation – feeling disconnected from a sense of self and one’s body. In some cases, patients have reported having out-of-body experiences
  • Hallucinations – seeing or hearing things which aren’t there
  • Changed perception of time and space
  • Anxiety
  • Confusion
  • Risk for addiction

Ketamine is also a drug of abuse, and there have been instances of telehealth patients becoming addicted to ketamine, which they’ve attributed to receiving the drug in unsupported settings. Long-term ketamine abuse can result in several physical complications, such as irreversible bladder damage and neurological impairment. 

A recent study analyzed the outcomes of 1247 patients who used their online medical service for at-home treatment. The researchers concluded that at-home therapy was “relatively safe,” with adverse events occurring in less than five percent of patients. However, the study didn’t account for long-term side effects or those that patients didn’t report.

 

In-Clinic vs. At-Home Ketamine: Key Differences

Supervision and Safety

  • In-Clinic: Medical professionals are present throughout the treatment session, monitoring for side effects or adverse reactions. This ensures the highest level of safety and support during and after treatment.
  • At-Home: Patients self-administer their treatments and rely on virtual check-ins. They will likely be given a blood pressure monitor to check for any significant themselves. If complications arise, immediate support may not be available.

Administration Method

  • In-Clinic: Ketamine is typically delivered via IV infusion, which allows for precise dosing and immediate effect. However, this method is invasive and can cause bruising. Clinics, including our own, also offer Spravato, which is a form of ketamine that is administered as a nasal spray.
  • At-Home: At-home ketamine treatments are generally in the form of a nasal spray or sublingual tablet.

Treatment Experience

  • In-clinic: With a healthcare provider present, patients receive personalized adjustments and support during their treatment, improving the overall experience. Clinics are also designed to be comfortable environments where patients can relax and immerse themselves in the ketamine experience.
  • At-Home: Patients can take ketamine in the comfort of their own homes. Some people may feel more at ease in a familiar environment, while for others, difficult associations with their home environments may interfere with ketamine’s healing process. There may also be more distractions at home.

Suitability

  • In-Clinic: Ideal for patients who need or prefer medical supervision, particularly for more complex mental health conditions such as treatment-resistant depression.
  • At-Home: Suitable for those seeking convenience, though it’s typically recommended for less severe cases or maintenance therapy. People struggling with poor mobility and agoraphobia may also benefit from at-home ketamine treatments.

 

Why Choose In-Clinic Ketamine at Emerge Ketamine?

At Emerge Ketamine, we believe that in-clinic ketamine therapy offers patients a safer, more effective treatment option. Here’s why:

  • Experienced Care: Our trained healthcare professionals provide personalized care and ensure your safety throughout the entire treatment process.
  • Comprehensive Monitoring: In-clinic settings allow us to monitor your response to the treatment, ensuring the best possible outcomes.
  • Ongoing Support: You’ll have access to real-time adjustments and care, providing peace of mind and a higher level of support compared to at-home options.

If you’re interested in our services, be sure to book a complimentary consultation with one of our expert advisors to learn how we can support you on your mental health journey.

 

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